Plaza de Bolívar

Manizales


The city's main square has the mandatory statue of Bolívar, by Rodrigo Arenas Betancur, here known as Bolívar-Cóndor since the sculptor endows Colombia's founder with distinctly birdlike features and a rather fine behind. The Palacio de Gobierno, a pretty, neoclassical confection built in 1927, stands on the northern side of the plaza.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Manizales attractions

1. Catedral de Manizales

0.04 MILES

Plaza de Bolívar’s south side is dominated by the odd but impressive Catedral de Manizales. Begun in 1929 and built of reinforced concrete, it is among…

2. Iglesia de Inmaculada Concepción

0.35 MILES

Built at the beginning of the 20th century, this elegant church has a beautiful carved-wood interior reminiscent of a ship's hull.

3. Torre de Chipre

0.87 MILES

The 30m-high spaceship-like lookout point has 360-degree views of the dramatic mountainous terrain surrounding the city. If you're brave you can walk…

4. Monumento a Los Colonizadores

0.92 MILES

Located atop a hill in the neighborhood of Chipre, this massive monument to the city's founders was crafted from 50 tonnes of bronze (including keys and…

5. Los Yarumos

2.39 MILES

This 53-hectare municipal park offers panoramic views of the city and adventure activities. Popular with locals, free activities include a short guided…

6. Hacienda Venecia

3.86 MILES

This hacienda has won numerous awards for its coffee. It offers a tour in English that includes an informative presentation about Colombian coffee, an…

7. Recinto del Pensamiento

5.27 MILES

Set in the cloud forest 11km from Manizales, this nature park has a fine mariposario (butterfly enclosure), several short walks through an impressive…

8. Hacienda Guayabal

10.34 MILES

This slow-paced working coffee farm near Chinchiná is a great place to come and unwind while surrounded by cafetero culture. It runs an excellent tour…